How much money do I need to immigrate to Canada?
You need government fees plus proof of settlement funds, which scale with family size and are updated annually by IRCC. Canadian Experience Class applicants are usually exempt.
Budget for two separate things: government processing and right-of-permanent-residence fees, and proof of settlement funds. Settlement fund requirements scale with family size and are updated annually by IRCC. Candidates applying under the Canadian Experience Class, or those with authorised Canadian work and a valid job offer, are generally exempt from the settlement funds requirement.
Key facts
| Settlement funds | Scales with family size; updated annually by IRCC |
|---|---|
| Exemptions | Canadian Experience Class and certain job-offer holders |
| Other costs | Language tests, ECA, medicals, police certificates, biometrics, translations |
| Evidence | Funds must be available, unencumbered and documented over time |
Who may qualify?
- Federal Skilled Worker and Federal Skilled Trades applicants must show funds
- Canadian Experience Class applicants are generally exempt
Eligibility requirements
- Official bank letters showing balances, account history and any debts
- Funds that are liquid and accessible, not tied up in property
How it works: step by step
- 1
Check the current threshold
Confirm the figure for your family size on IRCC's website.
- 2
Season your funds
Hold funds over months with a traceable source rather than a sudden deposit.
- 3
Budget the extras
Testing, assessments, medicals and travel add materially to the total.
Expert insight
Borrowed funds parked briefly in an account are one of the most common causes of refusal for misrepresentation concerns. Officers look at history and source, not just the closing balance.
Alternative pathways
Frequently asked questions
Immigration programs, fees and processing times change frequently. This page is general information, not immigration advice. Verify current requirements with official Government of Canada sources or speak with our RCIC.